Top places to visit in Gangtok Sikkim| Top 10 attractive tourist places in Gangtok

It is tough to choose just one of Gangtok's most appealing tourist attractions. Gangtok is a lovely city in the Indian state of Sikkim, recognised for its breathtaking natural beauty and rich cultural legacy. It is the ideal place for those seeking stunning landscapes, exhilarating outdoor activities, and one-of-a-kind cultural experiences. Here are the top ten tourist attractions in Gangtok that you should not miss:

1. Nathula Pass: At 4,310 metres in elevation, the Nathula Pass is a spectacular mountain route that connects India and China. It provides breathtaking views of the Himalayas and is a popular hiking and sightseeing destination.

2. Tsomgo Lake: Located at an elevation of 3,753 metres, this tranquil lake is a must-see for anybody visiting Gangtok. It is home to a number of rare and endangered bird species, and its crystal blue waters reflect the neighbouring snow-capped mountains.

3. Rumtek Monastery: Located on the outskirts of Gangtok, this spectacular monastery is the largest of its kind in the entire region. It has numerous old artefacts and Buddhist literature and is a famous location for meditation and religious events.

4. Banjhakri Falls: This stunning waterfall is located just outside of Gangtok and is a popular picnic and tourism destination. Its flowing streams provide a breathtaking perspective of the surrounding scenery.

5. Yumthang Valley, often known as the "Valley of Flowers," is located at an elevation of 3,800 metres and is home to a variety of wildflowers and rhododendrons. It is a popular trekking and sightseeing destination, and the vistas of the surrounding Himalayan peaks are breathtaking.

6. Hanuman Tok: Located at an elevation of 7,000 feet, this Hindu temple is a renowned pilgrimage spot for Hindus throughout the region. It houses an amazing statue of Lord Hanuman and provides breathtaking views of the surrounding mountain ranges.

7. Tashi Viewpoint: At an elevation of 8,500 feet, this viewpoint provides some of the most spectacular views in the entire region. It is a popular trekking and tourism destination, with views of snow-capped mountains and green valleys that are truly magnificent.

8. Sikkim Himalayan Zoological Park: This magnificent zoological park is home to a number of endangered animal species, including snow leopards, red pandas, tigers, and Himalayan black bears. It is a popular destination for both families and environmental enthusiasts.

9. Kanchenjunga National Park: This national park is home to a diverse range of flora and animals and is a popular hiking and tourism destination. Its lush forests and snow-capped mountains provide a spectacular view of the surrounding area.

10. Bakthang Waterfall: Situated just outside of Gangtok, this stunning waterfall is a popular picnic and viewing destination. Its roaring rivers cascade down from a height of 500 feet, providing a breathtaking perspective of the entire region.

Gangtok is a great place for those seeking a unique experience. There is something here for everyone, from breathtaking natural beauty to thrilling outdoor activities and one-of-a-kind cultural experiences. Whatever your interests are, Gangtok is sure to have something for you.

When is the best time to visit Gangtok?

Between March and June is the best time to visit Gangtok. The weather is warm and the skies are clear during this time, making it ideal for exploring the city's attractions. The temperatures range from 8°C to 24°C, making exploration of the city rather pleasant. The monsoon season, which lasts from July through August, should be avoided since it rains heavily, creating landslides and road closures. From October through February, the temperature lowers to 0°C and the skies darken. Snowfall is normal during this time of year, yet the city remains available to visitors.

How to Get There: Gangtok

Gangtok is accessible by air, road, and rail.

Via Air: The nearest airport to Gangtok is Bagdogra Airport in Siliguri, West Bengal, which is 124 kilometres away. The airport is well-connected to major cities such as Delhi, Kolkata, and Guwahati, among others.

Via Road: Gangtok is well connected by road to important cities such as Siliguri, Darjeeling, Kolkata, and Guwahati, among others. From Siliguri to Gangtok, regular buses and taxis are available.

Via Train: The nearest railway station to Gangtok is New Jalpaiguri Junction in Siliguri, West Bengal, which is 105 kilometres away. The station is well-connected to major cities including as Delhi, Kolkata, and Guwahati, among others.

Gangtok's famous cuisine

1. Momos - A popular food in Gangtok, Sikkim, are momos. Steamed dumplings stuffed with veggies, poultry, or meat and served with a fiery chilli sauce.

2. Thukpa - Thukpa is a substantial and delicious noodle soup popular in Gangtok. It consists of noodles, vegetables, and your choice of chicken, beef, or pig.

3. Phagshapa - Phagshapa is a traditional Himalayan meal of the Bhutia people. It's cooked with pork, dried chiles, and sichuan pepper and is usually eaten with steamed buns or boiled potatoes.

4. Gundruk - Gundruk is a fermented vegetable dish famous in the Himalayas. It is typically eaten with steaming rice or flatbread and is produced by fermenting cabbage, radishes, or turnips.

5. Sel Roti - A typical Nepalese sweet bread famous in Gangtok called Sel Roti. It is made with rice flour and is traditionally eaten with ghee or sugar.

Gangtok activities and sightseeing

* Go to Tsomgo Lake: Tsomgo Lake is a glacial lake in East Sikkim, India. It is 3,780 metres above sea level (12,401 ft). The lake is renowned among tourists and is surrounded by snow-capped mountains.

* Pay a visit to the Baba Mandir, a shrine dedicated to Baba Harbhajan Singh, an Indian Army soldier who is reported to have died in the line of duty in the region. It is a prominent Hindu and Sikh pilgrimage place.

* Ride the Gangtok Cable Car: The Gangtok Cable Car is a popular way to navigate around the city, providing beautiful views of the city and surrounding environment.

* Go on a Trekking Tour: The Himalayas have some of the world's most magnificent trekking paths. Trekking tours in Gangtok allow visitors to immerse themselves in the region's distinct culture and natural beauty.

* Go to the Rumtek Monastery: The Rumtek Monastery is Sikkim's largest Buddhist monastery. It is the residence of the Karmapa Lama, the head of the Tibetan Buddhist Karma Kagyu lineage. Buddhists flock to the monastery on pilgrimage.

* Go Shopping: Gangtok has a plethora of shops and markets selling traditional handicrafts, textiles, and souvenirs. Shopping in Gangtok is a terrific way to bring home some one-of-a-kind products.

* Discover the Region's Natural Wonders: Gangtok is surrounded by some of the world's most spectacular natural beauties. Take a day excursion to explore the region's forests, waterfalls, and villages.